If the plumbing system in your home has a leak, even a small one, you’ll be wasting water and throwing money away. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, an average household wastes 10,000 gallons annually, with 10% of homes wasting 90 gallons daily from leaks. Leaks are common and wasteful, but most times, a plumbing system gives you all the tell-tale signs that there’s a problem. Here are four signs you should pay attention to if you think your plumbing system leaks.

1. High Water Bill

A higher-than-average water bill may be a clear indicator you have a leak. Although leaks typically release small volumes of water, the amount adds up very quickly when left unaddressed. If the amount of water is significant, then it will reflect in your water bill. Your water bill will vary monthly, but this would be a drastic change that you should notice if you pay the bills.

2. Low Water Pressure

Some taps have low water pressure because of the faucet diameter size. However, if you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, there might be a leak somewhere in the piping. You should call a plumbing contractor if you notice slow water flow in more than one water outlet and you’ve checked your visible piping for leaks. It could be a leak, a clog, or other problems with your plumbing.

3. Mold Stains

Sometimes leaks seep through walls and ceilings and create an ugly stain. Leaking water can create perfect conditions for microbes and microorganisms if left unnoticed for long enough. If you notice a green, slimy stain on your wall near your pipes, you likely have a leak somewhere. You may notice rusty-looking circular stains on your ceiling, especially if it’s white.

4. Mysterious Odors

This sign is a bit more subtle than the others, but still a good indicator that you may have a problem. If you have a bad leak, you may notice a musty, unpleasant odor when you’re in the vicinity. It may smell like mold or mildew when you’re in or around the area that’s leaking. This sign should be used in conjunction with the rest, because you may only notice a smell after the water has been around long enough to do some damage. If the smell is due to a leak and it’s in the walls, an experienced plumbing contractor can locate the source of the smell.

Using these four indicators, you should be able to determine if there’s a leak inside your home. If you notice these signs but you can’t find out where the leak is coming from, it may be time to call a plumbing contractor. Reach out to us today at Majestic Plumbing & Electric for expert plumbing and electrical services.